TWO pest control workers have died in an industrial incident at a poultry factory in Norfolk in the early hours of this morning.

Police were today called to Banham Poultry - who supply chicken to Tesco - after reports the subcontractors, aged in their 30s and 40s, had been found dead close to the factory.

Eastern Daily Press reported the incident is linked to reports of a suspected chemical spill that has halted train services at Attleborough.

It comes after Banham Poultry was this week put up for sale, leaving hundreds of jobs at risk.

The factory is now in lock-down and local train services have been halted.

Officers are now examining the work site in Attleborough after being called just after 1am today.

T/Detective Chief Inspector Stu Chapman said: "On behalf of Norfolk Police and other emergency services, I offer my condolences to the friends and families of the men killed in this incident and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

"Colleagues from Norfolk Fire Service continue to make the scene safe so that detailed investigations can begin between police, fire, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), to understand the circumstances which lead to the men's deaths."

The company is the largest employer in the area, employing around 1,000 workers directly and responsible for a further 2,000 in the supply chain.

Banham Poultry has been trading since 1965 and has a turnover of approximately £100m per year.

Banham Poultry chief executive Martyn Bromley this week said the company was seeking a buyer after reports it had gone into administration.

The company produces its own chicks, hatches chicks and then rears chickens all the way through to slaughter. It supplies chickens to major supermarkets and other stores and wholesalers through the UK.

Next-of-kin have been made aware and Family Liaision Officers will be offering support.

A police cordon remains in place.